India lost their opening Asia/Oceania Group I tie of the Billie Jean King Cup against Thailand 1-2 despite a spirited doubles victory.
Debutant Vaishnavi Adkar struggled in the first singles, losing 1-6, 3-6 to Aunchisa Chanta. Sahaja Yamalapalli carried India’s hopes in the second singles but fell short in a tense three-set battle. She lost 4-6, 6-1, 4-6 to Patcharin, ranked 449, after rain delays stretched the contest to two hours and 25 minutes.
With India trailing 0-2, Rutuja Bhosale and Ankita Raina salvaged pride in the doubles. The pair displayed strong teamwork to beat Thasaporn Naklo and Peangtarn Plipuech 6-3, 6-4 in one hour and 11 minutes. Their aggressive play and decisive break in the second set secured India’s only point.
Captain Vishal Uppal acknowledged Thailand’s strength but praised the doubles team for their resilience. He emphasised the importance of regrouping quickly as India prepare to face New Zealand in their next tie.
